The Commerce Department's National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is sending fire and safety experts to W. Warwick, RI, to gather information and evaluate the February 20, 2003 tragic fire at The Station night club under the National Construction Safety Team Act (NCST).

Arriving on Saturday, February 22, NIST experts will work with other federal and local agencies, as well as with private sector organizations including the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), to learn more about the fire. Based on that reconnaissance, NIST will decide on appropriate next steps under the NCST.

As a non-regulatory agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce's Technology Administration, NIST develops and promotes measurement, standards and technology to enhance productivity, facilitate trade and improve the quality of life.